Guglielmo Tell (1988)
Rossini's grand opera masterpiece captured live at Milan's La Scala on December 14, 1988, in a landmark production directed by Luca Ronconi.
Guglielmo Tell - Movie Information
- Original Title: Guglielmo Tell
- Release Year: 1988
- Directed by: Luca Ronconi
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Music
- Runtime: 3h 59m
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- Production Countries: Italy
- Alternative Titles: Guillaume Tell (IT)
Guglielmo Tell - Plot
Live from La Scala Wednesday 14 December 1988.
Where to Watch Guglielmo Tell
Looking for where to watch Guglielmo Tell?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Guglielmo Tell - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Luca Ronconi
Main Cast
- Giorgio Zancanaro
- Luciana D'Intino
- Amelia Felle
- Cheryl Studer
- Chris Merritt
- Franco de Grandis
- Luigi Roni
- Giorgio Surjan
- Vittorio Terranova
- Alberto Noli
Writers
- Hippolyte Bis
- Étienne de Jouy
Guglielmo Tell - FAQs
What is Guglielmo Tell about?
Guglielmo Tell is a live recording of Rossini's monumental grand opera, captured at Milan's legendary La Scala on December 14, 1988. The opera follows the Swiss folk hero William Tell as he leads a rebellion against Austrian tyranny, culminating in the iconic apple-shooting scene.
Is Guglielmo Tell based on a true story?
The opera draws on the legend of William Tell, a Swiss folk hero said to have lived in the early 14th century. While historians debate whether Tell was a real person, the story of his defiance against Habsburg rule has become a powerful symbol of Swiss national identity.
Who performs in the 1988 La Scala production?
The cast is exceptional. Giorgio Zancanaro takes the title role, with Cheryl Studer as Mathilde and Chris Merritt as Arnoldo Melchtal. Luciana D'Intino, Luigi Roni, and Giorgio Surjan round out a stellar ensemble, all under the stage direction of Luca Ronconi.
Who composed the opera Guglielmo Tell?
Guglielmo Tell was composed by Gioachino Rossini and premiered at the Paris Opéra in 1829. It was Rossini's final opera and is widely considered his masterpiece, celebrated for its sweeping overture, dramatic scope, and demanding vocal writing.
Why is Guglielmo Tell significant in opera history?
Rossini's Guglielmo Tell is a cornerstone of the grand opera tradition. Its overture is one of the most recognized pieces in classical music, and the work's scale, dramatic ambition, and vocal demands make it a rare and celebrated event whenever it is staged in full.
How long is the 1988 Guglielmo Tell recording?
This La Scala recording runs nearly four hours — 239 minutes in total. That's entirely in keeping with the opera itself, which is one of the longest in the standard repertoire. It's a substantial commitment, but one that rewards patient and passionate opera lovers.
What language is Guglielmo Tell performed in?
This production is performed in Italian. Rossini originally composed the opera to a French libretto for its 1829 Paris premiere, but the Italian version — Guglielmo Tell — became the standard for Italian opera houses, including La Scala.
Are there similar opera films worth watching?
If you enjoy this production, you might also explore Don Giovanni (2000), Tosca by Giacomo Puccini (2019), or A Streetcar Named Desire — The San Francisco Opera World Premiere (1998). John Adams: Nixon in China (2023) is another compelling filmed opera for those who love the form.
More About Guglielmo Tell
Explore further details about this production on the following resources.